The country’s new UFC-middleweight world champion, Dricus du Plessis, who arrived back home this morning, has received a hero’s welcome. He touched down at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, shortly before 8 this morning.
Dricus gets a hero’s welcome
Dozens of fans, draped in the South African flag, were jubilant while waiting for him to alight from the Arrivals Hall. Dricus, himself, with a South African flag around his shoulders and still sporting some injuries, has thanked South Africans for pitching up.
[ON AIR] UFC Middleweight World Champion Dricus du Plessis returns home. He's the first South African to win a UFC world title. #DStv403 #eNCA pic.twitter.com/bUd3keu8Hn
— eNCA (@eNCA) January 25, 2024
He made history at the weekend after becoming the first South African to win a UFC title.
“It almost got me emotional when I walked out here. Thank you South Africa and thank you to each and every person who were here today. It’s incredible”
He has thanked South Africans, who have welcomed him home.
“It wouldn’t be worth it if it wasn’t for all you guys who are here today,” he added.
Making history
Look who’s home!! Welcome back @dricusduplessis
pic.twitter.com/zQ2fBWMiYg
— Tiffany (@tiff_dutoit) January 25, 2024
He has extended his appreciation to those, who showed him love and support and who made him chasing his dream, also their dream.
The country’s new UFC-middleweight world champion
UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis is back in the country. pic.twitter.com/VFOJlO2WfV
— Mahlatse Mphahlele (@BraMahlatse) January 25, 2024
Here is a DDP-superfan!
We found a UFC superfan and he's "ecstatic". #ddp #dricusduplessis @Sport24news pic.twitter.com/3wlFQKHO2r
— Heinz Schenk (@sportmal) January 25, 2024
There were supporters of all ages.
READ MORE: History is made!
Du Plessis says he will gladly wait a few months to defend his title on home soil if the fight is brought to African shores. The UFC head recently made remarks that they might consider hosting an event in South Africa for the first time, as the new champion is from here.
MORE ABOUT: The UFC
The MMA fighter says his priority is to get to the doctor to have himself checked out as he is planning a long career in this sport.
“Right now I am in South Africa and I am with my people and I want to enjoy this title up until the next one and then we get back to work,” he concluded.
